Indian Railways child fare structure:
0 to under 5 years (below 5):
- Free — no separate ticket needed.
- No berth/seat allocated.
- Up to 2 children below 5 free per adult.
5 to under 12 years:
- Without reserved berth: Half fare (cheaper).
- With reserved berth: Full adult fare (recommended for overnight journeys).
12 years and above:
- Full adult fare.
Important:
- Carry age proof (birth certificate, Aadhaar, school ID).
- For half-fare without berth: child shares parent's seat (not allowed during inspection in many trains now).
- Suburban / unreserved travel has different rules — usually free for under 5 only.